Trigger Fisthttp://www.iphonelife.com/taxonomy/term/5961/
enTrigger Fist vs. Critical Mission: SWAT — Who Will Survive this Virtual Shooter Showdown?http://www.iphonelife.com/blog/97/cm-swat
<p><img alt="" height="171" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/TFVSSWAT-460x171.png" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/critical-missions-swat/id529808425?mt=8">Critical Missions: SWAT</a><span>&nbsp;</span><strong>($2.99)</strong><span> from Critical Force Entertainment is a killer of a combat first-person shooter, especially if your thing is stalking through virtual settings (armed to the teeth) in order to blast in-game bots (or your online buddy's bots). The game physics are quite realistic, and the 3D scenes and graphics excellent. I did not go bananas over the control aspects, but after a few test runs started getting a better hang of it. Several modes of play are available: endless singular stalking/blasting or various team matches. Critical Missions: SWAT is a single bloody-minded combat game best enjoyed with a side of Foo Fighters at extremely high volume!&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>But can it stand up to the most excellent <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/trigger-fist/id531184261?mt=8">Trigger Fist</a>&nbsp;<strong>(Free)</strong> (reviewed previously <a href="http://www.iphonelife.com/blog/97/what-i-played-week-gridlee-probe-and-versu">here</a>)? Inquiring shooters want to know...&nbsp;<span>Here's how the two shake out in a side-by-side comparison!</span></p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/trigger-fist/id531184261?mt=8"><img alt="" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_0506-230x160.PNG" style="width:230px; height:160px" title="" width="230" height="160" /></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/trigger-fist/id531184261?mt=8"><img alt="" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/TFist3345-460x306-230x160.PNG" style="width:230px; height:160px" title="" width="230" height="160" /></a></p>
<p>I have long revered Trigger Fist as the pinnacle achievement of this game archetype for iOS, though Trigger Fist is actually TPS (while SWAT is FPS).</p>
<p><span>Trigger Fist is basically a version of combat "capture the flag" (or "goat" in this game's&nbsp;case) on the small screen. Critical Missions: SWAT, a relative newcomer to the 3D virtual shooter arena, is similar in objective — to find and kill other virtual players.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/trigger-fist/id531184261?mt=8"><img alt="" height="345" src="https://www.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/u97/photoTF345-460x345.PNG" title="" width="460" /></a></p>
<p><span>Trigger has an extremely useful swipe/turn and auto-aim that CM SWAT does not share, which can make abrupt target sweeps more difficult in SWAT.&nbsp;</span><span>To crouch or jump are additional on-screen soft buttons (though TF does not support jumping, crouching is another simple down/up swipe). I did not get the impression that enemy bots were as intelligent in SWAT as in Trigger; more like constantly roaming enemies akin to 3D Pac-men, and the zombies acted pretty much like zombies (they keep coming at you at various rates of progress). None of these rather minor differences affected my enjoyment of CM SWAT one bit. The game is still a high-octane combat blast, though its&nbsp;developers might want to consider some of the afore-mentioned tweaks!</span></p>
<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AjY7ZzN9w8U?feature=player_embedded" width="640"></iframe></p>
<p>What SWAT currently has over Trigger Fist is the in-game chance to pick up new weapons, although I&nbsp;<span>occasionally&nbsp;</span><span>found myself completely out of ammo with no choice but to continue running around like a dork (until a bot mercifully put me out of my misery). I could not seem to switch to hand-to-hand mode, so not sure if that's even an option (which is easy in </span>Trigger Fist, where <span>you basically smack your enemy with the butt of your weapon).&nbsp;</span><span>As you may note from the video above, the ballistic visuals are very, ahem, artistically rendered.</span></p>
<p><a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/critical-missions-swat/id529808425?mt=8"><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_0515-460x345.PNG" title="" width="460" /></a></p>
<p><span>CM SWAT also has a refined set of landscapes and gameplay modes. The play is faster, allowing full navigation over and around 3D in-game objects — you can run and jump, aim in all virtual directions. Lot's of game customization and flexibility not available in TF (6 different game modes, cross-platform, and local or global network gaming).&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/critical-missions-swat/id529808425?mt=8"><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_0517-460x345.PNG" title="" width="460" /></a></p>
<p>As you kill your virtual enemies in CM SWAT, of course you earn points, which can be used to upgrade to more permanent high-end firepower. You can even record your gameplay, play it back, and evaluate your zombie striking prowess, send in-game messages to your buddies. The game has a ton of cool features like this. Sooooo...who is the 3D shooting victor?</p>
<p><a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/critical-missions-swat/id529808425?mt=8"><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_0522-460x345.PNG" title="" width="460" /></a></p>
<h2><strong>The Verdict</strong></h2>
<p>I have to give Trigger Fist its props, but definitely digging CM SWAT too! I'd say for long-term achievement, I won't stop playing TF any time soon, but the much more varied CM SWAT will keep me coming back for more virtual destruction too. <span>I can't say that CM SWAT is as overall refined as Trigger, but it comes close and exceeds in more than a few areas. I have to call this one a draw, but you can't go wrong with either... Why not g</span><span>et 'em both!</span></p>
<p><strong>Critical Mission: SWAT&nbsp;</strong><strong>Pros:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Varied virtual 3D settings;</li>
<li>Full 3D movement and action;</li>
<li>Excellent supporting features like game recording and chat;</li>
<li>No IAPs.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Critical Mission: SWAT&nbsp;</strong><strong>Cons:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Not free;</li>
<li>Predictable computer enemies;</li>
<li>Control clutter and wonkiness.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Trigger Fist&nbsp;</strong><strong>Pros:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Free;</li>
<li>Excellent and simple control;</li>
<li>Smart enemies and team dynamics;</li>
<li>Lifelike game action (you die very easily when shot, like in real life).</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Trigger Fist&nbsp;</strong><strong>Cons:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Hard work for weapon/player upgrades and achievements (unless you cheat and IAP);</li>
<li><span>Fewer virtual landscapes (unless you buy the one expansion pack);</span></li>
<li>IAPs;</li>
<li>No Zombies.</li>
</ul>
AppsCritical Mission SWATTrigger FistGamesiPadiPhoneiPod touchReviews586262161531184261Tue, 09 Apr 2013 18:06:09 +0000Nate Adcock147975 at http://www.iphonelife.comWhat I Played This Week - Gridlee, P.R.O.B.E., Trigger Fist, and Versu!http://www.iphonelife.com/blog/97/what-i-played-week-gridlee-probe-and-versu
<p><img alt="" height="117" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/WPagain345125-460x117.png" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>I have several games to report on&nbsp;this week, plus interesting news about the makers of&nbsp;<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/galaxy-on-fire-2/id397127539?mt=8">Galaxy on Fire 2</a>&nbsp;releasing a mobile space shooter,&nbsp;MMORTS (Massive Multiplayer Online Real Time Strategy) game later this year. So let's get right to it!</p>
<p>First up is&nbsp;<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/trigger-fist/id531184261?mt=8">Trigger Fist</a>&nbsp;(my favorite shooter of all time), which I finally got around to grabbing&nbsp;an expansion pack for. Second, I'll review an old emulation game called <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/gridlee/id595117070?mt=8">Gridlee</a>,&nbsp;a game other blog sites say allows you to drop other game ROM files into and play, although I have not yet personally confirmed this. If true, the free Gridlee may have a short life in the app store as Apple frowns on emulators and may soon yank it. Third up is <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/p.r.o.b.e./id586838154?mt=8">P.R.O.B.E.</a>, a free Sci-Fi board game I played, which has a synthed up computer voice. Last but not least is&nbsp;<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/versu/id573034186?mt=8">Versu</a>,&nbsp;a just-released interactive story app, reminiscent of old-school adventure games.</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>1. Trigger Fist Expansion Pack</strong></p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/photoTF-460x345.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>Trigger Fist (see my full review <a href="http://www.iphonelife.com/blog/97/what-i-played-1">here</a>) continues to be the coolest combat shooter game west of the...heck, west of anywhere! Back in early January, they finally released an expansion pack that included new weapon options and environments (Train Yard and Rooftops). The new game landscapes are tough, adding both long range open kill zones, industrial obstacles and hidey holes. You can now upgrade weapons through IAPs, or (if you're old school, like me), work your way up the ranks like a good troop (just got level 18). I was holding out on a $0.99 app sale that never came, but had to grab it. If you have Trigger Fist, buy the expansion pack for $2.99! If you don't, go get the game and the pack too. You won't regret it. It provides new areas to play in and love on your goat ... (sounds gross but TF'ers understand)!</p>
<p><strong>2. Gridlee</strong></p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/photoGL-460x345.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>What is Gridlee? Well, a game that may keep on giving (at least until it gets yanked). Gridlee is sort of a primitive Q*Bert-ish game, if you are familiar with the isometric style platform games of yore. You move your thing (whatever it is..looks like a hose or worm I guess), around grid spaces trying to collect bonus things that bounce around, while other bouncing things try to smash your thing. Look, I admit I didn't download the game because I remember Gridlee from the 80s and I'm some kind of grid style hopping game expert, ok? The game is kinda lame, truth be told (no offense intended), and I understand, never released even back in the 80's. I DL'd it because it so happens I might know some people who know some people who have MAME ROM images laying around. MAME (Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator) is a game emulator that will let you play just about any classic arcade style game from like the past 30 years, provided you have the ROM images... That's where Gridlee comes in... shh, just watch the vid below and be amazed!</p>
<div><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/7qrTb2C2bKw?feature=player_embedded" width="640"></iframe></div>
<p><span>As you can see, the Gridlee app purportedly opens part of the iOS filesystem through an embedded emulator, and if you have say an iCade accessory and ROMs, you can enjoy mucho expanded retro gaming console fun on iOS--though some comments indicate that the ROMs wouldn't load lest you convert them. The excellent working example above provided by </span><a href="http://www.idownloadblog.com/2013/01/27/mame-gridlee-guide/">www.iDownloadBlog.com.</a><span>.. So go check it out if you want to learn more.</span></p>
<p><strong>3. P.R.O.B.E.</strong></p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_0354_0-460x345.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>P.R.O.B.E. is a game that looks and sounds so awesome, that you can overlook the somewhat boring strategy at first blush. You move a ship one space at a time from here to there, trying to land on crystals in the process. &nbsp;Not quite as simple as all that, as higher levels add tracks and valves that keep you from moving in certain directions, but the game feels like it needs some enemy combatants, or something.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_0360_0-460x345.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>The more complex puzzles that become available as you advance do admittedly add some challenge. Gameplay requires figuring out least number of moves to smash crystals and reach the final objective. Each move drains ship power, and you will fail if you don't complete the puzzle before power is gone. I like P.R.O.B.E., because it so perfectly captures the 80s and 90s sci-fi techie look/feel (especially the menus and sounds). First 30 levels are free, and possible I haven't achieved a high enough level to find the more compelling play aspects. If you just want to hear some cool SF tones, though, just grab this game and let it play in the background. Also an interesting screensaver!</p>
<p><strong>4. Versu</strong></p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_0361-460x345.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>Finally, I played Versu this week--an interactive book app just released. Your character is thrust into one of 3 fictional situations of your choosing (all of which seem a little dated). During the various stages of the story, you get to pick from a range of actions that can alter the outcome of the tale. Even if there are only 3 (not super-interesting) stories to begin with, as I played, I was definitely being drawn in!</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_0373-460x345.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>The interactive nature of&nbsp;Versu lies in the fact that you can increase/lower your character's standing in the group by forming alliances (through certain actions you take) which can impact the outcome of the tale. Considering most of my gaming time is spent trying to blow stuff up in 3-dimensional glory, Versu was a welcome and somewhat cerebral departure! There are no sound effects, and the graphics are also pretty blah, but the app is still compelling. I look forward to seeing what other content is made available. Versu would also be cool in an online mode that allows multiple players to interact as well... I think this app has a lot of potential, and am looking forward to seeing it further developed, so stay tuned for more Versu&nbsp;news!</p>
<p>Some quick news before I close out this week's gaming roundup WIPTW review. If you have read any of my game blogs over the years, you probably heard me rant a time or two about <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/galaxy-on-fire-2/id397127539?mt=8">Galaxy on Fire 2</a>, which is the Trigger Fist of the space shooter/strategy game genre. Anyway Fishlabs, the devs behind GOF, are making a mobile-capable MMORTS (massive multiplayer online real-time strategy game) based on the GOF universe. The game will be titled&nbsp;Galaxy on Fire™ - Alliances, running on the proprietary&nbsp;ABYSS® 3 engine and&nbsp;scheduled to be released for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch in Q3 of 2013 (Android version to precede iOS)... You can stay updated on the new game at the&nbsp;Fishlabs blog <a href="http://www.fishlabs.net/en/blog/">here</a>.</p>
<p><em>That's it for this week's WIPTW&nbsp;game roundup. You can grab the apps mentioned in this review at the App store links posted above. Make sure to check back to our blogs regularly for the best in news, reviews, tips and tricks on all things iOS, and to really stay in the know, <a href="https://www.iphonelife.com/subscribe?PK=webnv1">grab an iPhoneLife magazine subscription</a>!</em></p>
AppsGamesGridleeP.R.O.B.E.Trigger FistVersuGamesiPadiPhoneiPod touchReviews533159408586838154531184261597986893Fri, 15 Feb 2013 17:39:48 +0000Nate Adcock142837 at http://www.iphonelife.comiPad Mini 16GB Wi-Fi Review - Week Onehttp://www.iphonelife.com/blog/97/ipad-mini-16gb-wi-fi-review-week-one
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1774-460x345.JPG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>This is my 2nd review of the <a href="http://www.apple.com/ipad-mini/overview/">iPad mini</a> after my <a href="https://www.iphonelife.com/blog/97/ipad-mini-16gb-wi-fi-review-unboxing-and-setup">unboxing post</a>, and a week of heavy use. I have managed to get it mostly configured and working with Wi-Fi and my Bluetooth devices, but I feel like I have barely begun. iCloud is not really what I consider an integrated cloud service though I can't blame Apple. The various service ecosystems do not help matters, and thus I still have not configured all my apps and services (i.e.&nbsp;gmail exchange service for calendars, contacts, etc.), but am getting there slowly but surely. In this post, I focus on the screen, camera and related apps...</p>
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<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1775-460x345.JPG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>In these reviews, I will not rehash iPad or iOS capabilities covered by other more worthy reviewers here and elsewhere--instead conduct more of a comparative review of specific mini aspects that are unique to it. You would think that a 7-inch screen would feel limited or somehow scrunched compared to iPad. For many apps, the size difference is not as noticeable as you might think, though for drawing and super high-res games or video, I would opt for the bigger tablet. The smaller screen is not something that will bother most casual users, in my opinion, as the pixel density count is still a respectable 163ppi.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/photoBrowse-460x345.JPG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>Text and images are certainly rendered on a smaller scale, but the sharp 1024X768 rez&nbsp;IPS LCD screen is clear from just about any angle, as with any Apple screen. The full iPad experience (i.e. propped-up full text entry and browsing) is certainly better. The somewhat flip-floppy base of the Smart Cover makes propped-up browsing on the iPad mini somewhat dicey due to the lighter weight. It seems easy to knock it completely off or to collapse the base while tapping or touching the screen, but in truth it would take a pretty forceful tap to knock it over. I found that using a stylus definitely helped to minimize the risk.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1789-460x345.JPG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>For gaming, the 7-inch screen in my opinion is the sweet spot. I often felt the larger iPad was a somewhat unwieldy size for gaming, though many games look gorgeous on the large Retina display (or at least those designed for it). The smaller mini could probably benefit from a gaming case with grips (a worthy mini accessory), as there isn't as much real estate to hold onto, though it hasn't seemed to affected my scoring. Games that rely on accelerometer or positioning of the unit especially benefit from the iPad mini's lighter/thinner package, which is easier to tilt.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1779-460x345.JPG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>I found that all my previous games played really well on mini, and in fact games not made for iPad look less pixilated in the 2x view mode than on a bigger iPad. I tested my small suction-cup JOYSTICK-IT game controller and that also worked decently for many games that would have had larger control layouts on the full iPad (and not worked as well). What I really wish is that someone would develop a decent mobile game controller that can be programmed to work with all games. Game Center progress transferred for my favorite games (Trigger Fist, Dinosaur Hunter and Galaxy on Fire 2), and have picked up exactly where I left off on the old iPad.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1782_0-460x345.JPG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>Typing on the screen is the easiest of any iOS device, in my opinion. I would rather have a bigger sized screen for long sessions, but this works well for response to email or other simple text entry, even one-handed. I think if you're using iPad for more productivity reasons and less for entertainment, then you might consider keeping your bigger iPad, and bypassing mini (unless you just want to be a Greedy Gus and have both). Gamers and casual users, will probably gravitate toward the smaller mini (or probably a Retina "mini 2"). The screen on mini is very responsive to gestures and other forms of input. Of course, I was able to quickly get my Bluetooth keyboard paired up with mini, so didn't have to resort to as much screen tapping after that.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>iPad mini Front/Rear Camera</strong></p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1781-460x345.JPG" title="" width="460" /><br />
The camera (and the camera app) are somewhat useful to me, though not a driving reason for me wanting a mini. This blogging thing might cause me to use it once in a while--the mini rear-side camera is decent enough for situations where I don't have my dedicated P-n-S Canon. iPad is not great at image stabilization, and though it only features a 5-megapixel resolution, macro shots looked sufficiently clean provided you hold it firmly. It would do in a pinch, I would say. iPhone 5 is the best option for camera integration if you really want that in a single portable device.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="177" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_combo-460x177.jpg" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>For the kind of close pix I need, the smart cover works pretty well for stabilizing the iPad mini. The shot above was taken with mini (right) and my P-n-S (left). At higher magnification, you would certainly see a marked quality difference, though my camera tends to overdo some shading and color (which often makes for better blog shots), the depth is certainly much better with my Canon. You may not win any awards with the rear-camera on mini, but you can certainly take decent pix, however you will need at least some ambient light to do so. There is no flash on the unit, so really low light images are not worth the effort. The front facing pin-hole camera is a 1.2 megapixel which provides enough optical prowess for FaceTime sessions, or Photo Booth type quick snaps.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_0002-460x345.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>The Camera and Photo Booth apps are both worth mentioning, if only from the standpoint of being simple and no-nonsense ways to take interesting photos, tweak and share them on your mini. I think the key difference from a full iPad being that mini might be slim-line enough to work as a second still/vid camera. The camera app itself is the same app you expect, allowing you to capture mostly-stable images and 1080p vids. Also easier to perform with mini is the pinch-zooming of views, though it worked best using 2 thumbs when holding the unit with both hands. You can apply instant quirky effects to live views from either camera using Photo Booth, and it similarly makes it easy to snap unique pix to share with your friends. I'll cover video shooting and playback in the next segment...</p>
<p>So, enough for this post, as I've blathered on too long already... All-in-all, am still really loving the thing called mini, and have not once thought, "Oh wow! I really miss this whatever-it-is on my bigger iPad!" Games play better than the dinosaur iPad 1 for sure, and the camera is passable. Quick text typing is one of mini's best assets so far. If you waited to jump like I did, I don't think you can go wrong with the iPad mini.</p>
<p><em>Make sure to tune in for next week's installment where I'll dive into more of my iPad mini experience, especially some of my favorite apps. Hopefully I should have everything updated and working by then!!</em></p>
Carnivores: Dinosaurs HunterGalaxy on Fire 2Top StoryTrigger FistiPadReviews684536695397127539531184261Mon, 12 Nov 2012 01:09:44 +0000Nate Adcock132861 at http://www.iphonelife.comWhat I Played this Week - Green Rage and Battle Fleet!http://www.iphonelife.com/blog/97/what-i-played-2
<p><img alt="" height="184" src="https://www.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/u97/WIPTWAgainAg.png" title="" width="361" /></p>
<p>It has been many weeks since a WIPTW post up, due to work, and really <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/trigger-fist/id531184261?mt=8">Trigger Fist</a>;&nbsp;because I can't stop playing it! I did manage to pull myself away long enough to check out two also very cool indie games that are featured this week, both of which played nicely on the new iPad mini (review of that coming as well). When I started this review, I was listening to hurricane Sandy pound the crap out of my house while watching endless spiral bands of rain rolling in from the Atlantic on radar. My windows were leaking water, but the lights were still on (though flickering ominously), so it felt like I was on one of those old WW2 battleships riding the Pacific high seas...kind of like the game I was playing at the time! A game called...er, <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/battle-fleet/id440800156?mt=8">Battle Fleet</a> (lame segue, but hey I tried). The other awesome game featured this week is a totally original platform game called Green Rage. Think alien adventure shoot-em-up and you as the alien. Both of these games are keepers, but Green Rage&nbsp;for iPad/iPhone&nbsp;only plays well on newer iOS devices/versions (iPad2/3/mini, iPhone 4S/5, and iPod 5), so wanted to point that out before diving in. <strong>UPDATE 11/6/2012</strong>...Green Rage is being pulled from the App store by the vendor (to fix a few things), but will return soon, so I pulled the links above... Learn more in the review below. <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/battle-fleet/id440800156?mt=8">Battle Fleet</a> is available for 99 cents tomorrow (11/07/12) thanks to a special promotion from&nbsp;<a href="http://www.onedollarwed.com/">One Dollar Wednesday</a>...</p>
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<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1182-460x345.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>Ok, so let's start with Battle Fleet. I doubt there are many who have not experienced the game of Battleship. You and an opponent sqaure off over a double grid of ship icons, each hidden from the other's view. Each player takes turns launching virtual salvos at the other's hidden ship layout, and so on, et cetera until someone sinks the opponent's game pieces. Bship is a blast (see my iOS battleship review <a href="http://www.iphonelife.com/blog/97/what-i-played-week-ea-gamefest">here</a>), but always left me feeling kind of unfulfilled. The ships can't move during combat--unless you lie or cheat, and c'mon..who hasn't tried that a few times? Funny when your opponent knows he just got a hit, and you say nothing, heehee. Yelling out bingo numbers does grow a bit tiresome after several thousand plays, however. Battle Fleet is the game you envisioned Battleship could be if there were iPads and similarly cool stuff in the 70s and 80s. Not only do the ships move under your command, but they have an array of weapons to bring to bear on the enemy. Though Fleet is turned-based like Bship, it's a much much more dynamic game.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1198_0-460x345.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>What I like about both games in this review is that indie developers created very good games that aren't over the top complex or filled full of mind-blowing graphics, though I must say that the sound, game scenes and overall ambiance of Green Rage are remarkable. Battle Fleet uses very generic-looking graphics, which really do not effect the fun or playability of the game in the least. The simple icons add to the somewhat nostalgic feel of the game, in my opinion. The startup offers a tutorial (which I embarrasingly lost to the computer AI several times). When you first go through it, you get a taste for what it would be like to command a range of fleet weapons, and it is not easy.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1189-460x345.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>The strategem or theme in Battle Fleet is pretty straight-forward: tactical naval warfare methods and physics (complete with animations of your shots). It actually reminds me a bit of Scorched Earth 3-D, but on the ocean of course (where else would ships fight, duh)? In BF, you and a computer AI enemy, (or a human if you prefer) go head to head. There are several game modes to choose from including a hotseat mode that puts each turn on a timer (called "no kibitzing" mode to Scorched Earth 3D fans). You begin with your respective fleets miles apart. You then try to close with and destroy the enemy in detail, meaning you actually drive and control the individual ships. There are a variety of weapons to mount on your ships (torpedoes, precision guns, area and defence weapons).&nbsp;Carriers are probably the most ferocious, as they allow remote and semi-precise bombing of the enemy on every turn.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1202-460x345.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>Each weapons hit will cause a certain amount of damage to the enemy vessel, but not total destruction. Even a crippled ship can still have teeth, and yes, you can damage yourself by running your ships together (uh, been there, done that). Hot Seat was probably my favorite mode of play, as it really ratchets up the pressure and excitement of closing and killing the enemy ships on each turn. I smashed the arm of my chair when I missed, and fist-pumped when I got a hit. I started thinking ahead like a naval battle chess player, and was nearly ready to volunteer as a part-time U.S. Navy Admiral when my frigate and main battleship were destroyed. The features in this game are varied and authentic, recalling the greatest of sea battles between U.S. and Japanese forces in WW2, even including Japanese computer voice responses (kind of a neat touch). You can also battle against opponents over the internet. If you want to get a whiff of the experience of commanding a fleet in the Pacific in a naval battle, this is your game. It played just fine even on my old iPad 1 without incident and is a mere 40M or so in size.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>UPDATE: 11/05/2012--</strong><em>I always try to be fair in product reviews, but I will be honest that I like to give app vendors the benefit of the doubt. Coders work hard to make software products like Green Rage, that are not only fun but artistically unique. I have banged out a few lines of code in my day (chock full of bugs), and though I don't do much more than script stuff today, I know the hard work that goes into making excellent software. Developers are a big part of the reason Apple is such a success with iOS, so I especially salute a vendor who proactively decides to pull/fix a product. Until further notice, the vendor has decided to pull the product due to early complaints from users, similar to those noted below in my review. I still feel the game has a huge amount of potential for success, so stand by my opinion that it is a good game, however enough user complaints convinced the developer to work on it some more. I applaud that decision, but wanted to let our readers know. The vendor informed me that Green Rage will return to the App store in the future, and I will cover it when it does.</em></p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1190-460x345.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>Green Rage is one of the oddest looking platform games I have played, and really the scenes, backgrounds, and animations are all just fabulous, though the nice graphics do bring the game in at a somewhat heavy 200+M. Music is a little repetitive, but also matches the game's weirdness well. The detailed world is well-done, and this is the kind I enjoy probably more than traditional run/jump platform games. For one, the little guy you control doesn't really run very fast. He instead kind of shuffles along. He can jump, but that is the only other action move he can do. Holding the jump button will make him jump higher. Ok, so what's so different then, you ask? He has a blaster! And in this world (which reminds me of a sort of "junkyard planet", I guess) you need the blaster, because all kinds of critters are coming to pick at and kill you. Mostly from the air... and several at once, so the game is quite hard in more than a few spots.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="306" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_0985-460x306.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>Oh, almost forgot... You also have like a force field/respawn point--another unique feature, in that when you activate it, you set the point that your next play will respawn. Pretty nifty concept, and it will also provide some protection from the bad guys. The terrain, obstacles and enemies are similarly varied and unique. Some things crawl at you, or fly. Others are objects to avoid in your path. Killing the baddies and collecting the power-ups though will upgrade the hand cannon to bigger and better models, so you want to kill as many as possible. I thought the D-Pad and control layouts were a little weird. I moved them around and that helped some. When firing, you must use the left d-pad to control angle, which also take a bit of getting used to.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1193-460x345.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>The game starts with a sort of navigate-able backstory, which confused me for a full minute. At first I thought it was the level selection screen or something. I kept tapping stuff on the screen to no effect. I figured out it was the intro to the game's story when I finally noted the arrow icons at the bottom, which you must navigate through on each level (a little annoying, but not required once complete). Evidently your character get's in some trouble with his space commander, and get's kicked (literally by a boot going up into his rump) off the planet through a worm hole to land headfirst on the junkyard world. I guess he is trying to survive to get back or something. The backstory never much matters to me in platform games, but there it is. I thought it was his Dad, and he was a space alien kid, but the developer gave me the scoop that it's his commander handing down the punishment.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/photoGR2-460x345.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>Anyway, I like Green Rage, if only for the shuffly little alien and his stunning quick-on-the-draw blaster. The ambience of the game is striking, and is one of those games worthy of a try, but alas there were a few technical challenges to report. It did crash on my iPod touch 4G several times even after a reset. On iPad 1, the game is not playable as the character is just a black square. I informed the developer and they are looking into the crashes, but be advised they are only supporting newer devices, so this game is not likely to work well on older iOS hardware and OS versions. The game also did not seem to stay in cache when I tried multi-tasking to other apps, and also no Game Center or OpenFeint support at this time.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Well that's enough fun for this edition. I give both of these games the iPhoneLife stamp of approval, though Green Rage is a little rough around the edges, I feel confident the developers will take care of the few issues I noted if possible, though it is doubtful they will make the game backward compatible to older devices. You can grab either at the links above in the opening section...</p>
<p><em>Stay tuned to our iPhoneLife blogs for more great reviews, news, tips and tricks in the future...</em></p>
AppsBattle FleetGamesGreen RageTrigger FistGamesiPadiPhoneiPod touchReviews415446629378080432531184261Tue, 06 Nov 2012 02:30:53 +0000Nate Adcock119492 at http://www.iphonelife.comiPad mini 16GB Wi-Fi Review - Unboxing and Setup!http://www.iphonelife.com/blog/97/ipad-mini-16gb-wi-fi-review-unboxing-and-setup
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1229-460x345.JPG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>Finally have exactly the iPad that I want. The <a href="http://www.apple.com/ipad-mini/overview/">mini</a>... I need something small and light, but with a decent screen for games, ebooks, email and web. I don't carry a lot of pix or music around (except maybe to the gym and have a nano for that). I likely won't use the rear camera that much, though that might come in handy for quick product shots or quick videos in a review or something (though have a much better P-n-S camera for that). So, if you have similar requirements, you should consider getting one. The technical specs are not great compared to other tablets this size. Slower CPU, less RAM, no GPS... So why spend the considerable price then? Hopefully I will answer that question in one of what will be several review posts on the new mini in the coming weeks. But first let's put that aside, and simply enjoy the unboxing and basic configuration of this trim new iPad! Love it or hate it, you have to admit it looks pretty cool, and why not? It is after all an iPad...</p>
<p></p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1225-460x345.JPG" title="" width="460" /><em>What's in the box?...basically an iPad, a lightning-USB cable, power charger, Apple logo stickers, a quickstart and warranty info..</em></p>
<p>First to describe yes even the box. Apple doesn't seem to deviate much from the tried and true. Hmm, must be something to that... Other vendors may tend toward trying to create ever more complicated packaging and flashy wrappers for their gadgets, but Apple has pretty much stuck with the same formula. I have done many unboxings over the years, and in this regard, Apple could be considered predictable and yes, even boring. That is, however, if the packaging wasn't so pleasing itself. You see, the devil is really in the details when it comes to Apple hardware. The difference in that experience is not to be underestimated or downplayed...You pay for not just a great and reliable tablet, but a great tablet-buying experience as well. The boxing of Apple products is so finely done, you can't bring yourself to ever get rid of them (those of us who appreciate that sort of thing). Simple white packaging with the Apple logo, the product name and an image, but the box top fits so precisely, that a satisfying suction will make getting it off a lesson in sublime patience. One must savor an Apple unboxing. Inside, the simple magic continues, so let us begin, but first a warning--I don't intend to cover every aspect of the mini in this unbox post. Mainly just the highlights and setup. The follow-up posts will be much more in-depth.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1228-460x345.JPG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>Apple lays the device right on top, covered (except at the corners) in a clear plastic that is suitable to function as a slim protective cover (until you actually buy a real one that is), so it's the first thing you see once getting that tricky top off. After pulling the iPad mini out, you notice it's thin, light yet solid feel, and the ease with which one can heft it single-handedly. Removing the wrapper, you next relish the gun-metal texture of the unit's back. Apple has done a magnificent job building in the same excellent design concerns into iPad mini of mini's bigger brother, the iPad. Not only is the front glass superb and smooth to the touch, it provides durable scratch resistance (well, we shall see how well, as I have been using it sans screen protector so far...).</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1226-460x345.JPG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>The mini is almost the perfect size for my desk or walking around the office (see some pix posted later in the review)... It really feels so much more comfortable when carrying it around, and as with other Apple products, the quality of the product is obvious. Sorry to digress there a bit into total&nbsp;fanboy-land, which I ordinarily try not to do, so back to the unbox. The back &nbsp;of the mini sports an original look for Apple devices: a slate colored aluminum back cover that looks better I think than the previous models, but then that is a matter of personal taste. You may choose to get the White/Silver version featuring the more traditional Apple look, however...</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1219-460x345.JPG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>The front LED screen glass has what looks to be a thin bevelled&nbsp;edge that wraps around from the back and meets it perfectly flush. A tiny scratch or ding marred my unit just below the home button (you can just make it out in the pix above north of the lightning port), but it's so small as to be almost beneath whining about. You can see it more clearly at different angles, and it's so tiny, I can't tell if it's on the edge of the glass itself, or the cover. This is unusual for any Apple product I have owned. I cannot remember to date ever noting any perceptible damage to anything I have purchased from Apple coming out of the box. The mini's speaker grills are located in the bottom on either side of the new lightning connector (see pix above). Early ad-hoc music/game playback testing was surprisingly bright and clear sounding at all levels.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1222-460x345.JPG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>Along the top and upper right side of the mini, Apple preserves the same basic power and volume button layout and functionality of other devices, but the difference from the bigger iPad is apparent in the look of the buttons, which actually closely resemble those of iPod touch more than a bigger iPad. In fact the buttons on my iPod touch are very close to the same size and Gen 5 looks identical, though someone with a unit to compare with would have to confirm that.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1223-460x345.JPG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>In many regards, mini really is much closer to a sized-up iPod touch than a shrunk down iPad, in my opinion. But this doesn't just include buttons. Mainly it comes in the form of usability. I noticed typing in basic text strings in the Notes application that I could very easily (and in stable fashion), type rapidly for an extended period without setting the unit down on a table or desktop. I have always been amazed how fast I can thumb type on my iPod touch, and one-handed typing on the mini is similarly easy.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Setting Up mini...not that easy</strong></p>
<p>Now comes the time in the review where I give Apple a few bruises (you knew it was coming sooner or later). Not everything is going to be all chocolates and candy kisses in these reviews, I assure you. I have plenty of gripes about iOS stored up, but let's start with just the initial setup.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1215-460x345.JPG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>Please Apple, make this easier. First, let me get into the home screen without DOING ANYTHING! Quickly bypass every screen prompt and just start using the darn thing. Yes, I know it's essentially a fancy, back-lighted brick until it connects to a network and I sync it up with iCloud, get all my apps and settings configured...but so what? Say I want to show off my new toy...maybe at least the darn home screen! Maybe take a few pictures with it, huh? Had the device delivered to my work, so I could do just that. The setup screens all up in your grill until you either connect to iTunes or a Wi-Fi network. Also, please Apple, show me my MAC address before setup (every Wi-Fi device vendor, listen up) please! I can't connect my Wi-Fi mini to my Wi-Fi network because my net is both hidden and uses MAC authentication, so that left the not really easier option of using iTunes to start the configuration... You will start by connecting the mini's Lightning port to your computer if you go this route, but get ready for more hassle.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1211-460x345.JPG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>Big Gripe number 2...iTunes setup still weird and confusing. No I DO NOT WANT TO RESTORE ANOTHER IPAD's backup to my excellent new mini! Does anyone do this that often? You get a new device (probably a newer model and maybe new iOS version), and you restore from an old one? Everything in iCloud and iTunes is available to be synced to your new iPad mini. Why would you need to restore from a backup to the new one? I'm not saying there shouldn't be a way to do this. Of course there should (a replacement device, etc.), but present maybe a prompt or pop-up later, as this is just another annoyance to most new device owners. I may not want all the junk I had on the old one, for cripes sake! I'm sure users will argue this both ways, but personally I have set up a lot of devices and never used this option.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1230-460x345.JPG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>So after answering prompts and terms of use agreements, iPad mini actually is ready for you to continue the setup, but you wouldn't know that, because iTunes just sort of goes back to a blank screen, and mini just sort of sits there. Well, it is ready for the initial sync, but you still have to move through a few screens on the iPad now. You also need to set a few options for syncing in iTunes, and a few mini-side items like whether to allow location services on your device. You start with the registration screen in iTunes...</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1232-460x345.JPG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>All-in-all, I estimate the configuration time mess took me a few hours to get the stuff I wanted from iTunes transferred and working on the new mini, as well as my Wi-Fi working and my accounts configured (including transfer of some 100+ apps). Cleaning up all my icons took another 25 minutes (this should be a&nbsp;config item that can be synced across devices as well). Instead of post up shots of every one of these screens, I figure it's easier to just tell you my important or recommended settings:</p>
<p>1. Manually manage songs and photos-If you get a 16GB mini, and enjoy a lot of games like me, you probably won't have space for all that stuff anyway. You can still drag songs or playlists over later.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1233-460x345.JPG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>2. Turn on location services-No GPS on Wi-Fi&nbsp;mini...but other apps and services you may want to use will need them to function, and you can always tweak them on a per app basis later under the Privacy tab. The free service Apple provides that allows you to find your iPad will require location services, for example...</p>
<p><img alt="" height="345" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_1235-460x345.JPG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>3. Turn on Siri-Even if you think you will not ever use this, turn it on, as this is one of the cool things mini can do, so even just to try it for a minute! You can turn it off in Settings &gt;&gt; Privacy later if you like.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>So, enough blathering about the unboxing and griping about the setup. I have actually started to use some apps now (2 days after I got it), so should hopefully have more in-depth analysis to report by late week. My early feeling is that the screen is great&nbsp;(even without the Retina quality), the unit is the perfect size, and I am going to really love this device. I played a few of my fav games (of course <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/trigger-fist/id531184261?mt=8">Trigger Fist</a> being notably one), and was frankly impressed on all counts (visuals, game performance, sound, etc.). I'll post back up with part 2 very soon, so stay tuned!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
Top StoryTrigger FistiPadReviews531184261Tue, 06 Nov 2012 02:09:28 +0000Nate Adcock132026 at http://www.iphonelife.comTrigger Fist update at only 99 cents - GO GET IT!http://www.iphonelife.com/blog/97/trigger-fist-update-only-99-cents-go-get-it
<p><img alt="" height="306" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/IMG_0815-460x306.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>This is arguably one of my all-time favorite games, and one that I play literally every (I do not exaggerate) chance I get. If you like combat shooters, you have to get this game, load it up on your devices (all of them), and immerse yourself in the magical combat bliss that is <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/trigger-fist/id531184261?mt=8">Trigger Fist</a>!! You will not get bored, and you will not want to stop playing. Every sacred goat you snare and protect with your life; every hard-won upgrade and unlock; every perfectly laid ambush you and your team execute will keep you coming back again and again! Do yourself a big favor, and get it NOW, just updated for latest iPhone and iPod touch versions, for ONLY 99 cents... for a limited time I'm sure.</p>
<p></p>
GamesTrigger FistGamesiPadiPhoneiPod touch531184261Thu, 18 Oct 2012 01:55:50 +0000Nate Adcock130307 at http://www.iphonelife.comTrigger Fist update issues and fixhttp://www.iphonelife.com/blog/97/trigger-fist-update-issues-and-fix
<p><img alt="" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/TFist1-460x306.PNG" style="height:306px; width:460px" width="460" height="306" /></p>
<p>Last week, <a href="https://www.iphonelife.com/blog/97/what-i-played-1">I posted up</a> on <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/trigger-fist/id531184261?mt=8">Trigger Fist</a>. Currently my favorite shooter, maybe of all time! So simple of an idea, really--create realistic 3-D combat settings, throw in a sacred goat and a team of highly skilled unfriendlies, and voila--simulated combat bliss! But alas, a miscue in the recent update has been causing problems, especially in terms of saving progress, Game Center stats and app crashes. So I thought I better post up on the current fix.</p>
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<p><img alt="" height="306" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/photoTFIss-460x306.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>If you haven't yet tried the update, I recommend against it.&nbsp;After the update, my iPad and iPod produced a red line across the bottom of the main game screen (see above) instead of the normal progress bar. If you see this, it is likely you will have the same issues, and so I recommend at this point you simply reinstall it, as not only will your progress be killed, the app will start crashing.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="600" src="https://www.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/u97/photoTFIss2.PNG" title="" width="399" /></p>
<p>Next simply delete the app from your device by holding down the icon until you see the "x" in the upper left corner. Select the "x". Go to the App Store and re-install it, and you should have your stats at least, though your progress may be lost (mine was).</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" height="600" src="https://www.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/u97/photoPur1.PNG" title="" width="400" /></p>
<p>You can easily re-install using the App Store app on your device. Navigation to the "Purchased" feature differs a bit between the devices (iPad-on it's own screen, iPod/iPhone-through the update feature)...</p>
<p>I had to start again as a TF initiate myself, but you advance rather quickly in this game, so it won't take you long to get your respect back... Hope this helps, and if you still have issues, post up a comment below, and I will forward to the dev directly! Looks like a new update has the same issue, so if you want to play the game and keep your progress, I recommend waiting until a solution is fully confirmed before updating this app...</p>
AppsGamesTrigger FistHow-ToGamesiPadiPhoneiPod touchReviews531184261Sat, 25 Aug 2012 14:05:14 +0000Nate Adcock124694 at http://www.iphonelife.comWhat I played this week - Trigger Fist and Flight!http://www.iphonelife.com/blog/97/what-i-played-1
<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/WxweBsfnQSM?feature=player_detailpage" width="640"></iframe><img alt="" height="187" src="https://www.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/u97/WHatNewg789.png" title="" width="365" /></p>
<p>This week, I played 2 great games that are very different, but both great fun. <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/trigger-fist/id531184261?mt=8">Trigger Fist</a> is a combat game that you will both love and hate. Hate it because like real combat, it's so easy to get killed, but love it because it's so freaking cool!! Cool enough to warrant an iPhoneLife video demo, also included in this review. The other game I played the week, <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/flight!/id496191902?mt=8">Flight</a>, is a simple 2D-scroller recreating the fun and nostalgia of paper airplane flight.</p>
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<p><img alt="" height="306" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/TFist1-460x306.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>Trigger Fist is going to be one of my favorite games this year, if not the favorite. As shooter games go, it is excellent in every sense. Realistic combat environs, and better than average control options, particularly when it comes to turning around and keeping track of enemy and friendly positions (which is critical in this game).</p>
<p><img alt="" height="306" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/TFist4-460x306.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>The realism should not be understated. In many similar games, it is predictable to learn game enemy patterns after a few tries, but TF really feels as chaotic as the real thing. Fire and cover discipline is therefore key. You move, find cover, crouch, lay down controlled bursts of fire at enemy, reload, move, (maybe toss grenade) repeat, wash, rinse, etc. If you get into this pattern, you will start to rack up kills and wins. If you just run out shooting wildly about like a noob (which I did), you will be cold and dead on the virtual floor in something like 5 seconds.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="306" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/TFist3-460x306.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>The controls are par excellente for an iPad or iPhone game. It is still frustrating to get killed from outside of the field of view (which happens a lot when you lollygag around like I do sometimes). The radar in the upper right corner helps a lot, so you need to learn to keep one eye on it--keep tab on friendlies, and enemy direction and distance at a glance.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="306" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/TFist2-460x306.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>You can customize the controls to your own preference, and as you progress through the different challenges, you earn experience points to grab upgrades to personal protection, and weaponry. The game also offers several team and single player modes of play. You and real life buddies can team up over Bluetooth, or you can team up with players on the internet (or just go up against computer-controlled bad guys). You can try FFA (free-for-all) mode, if you like getting fragged even quicker. Whoever racks up the most kills, wins.</p>
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<p><img alt="" height="306" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/Flight3-460x306.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>Flight is a flash game ported to iOS. Never played it, but I take it that the original was pretty cool. The iOS game version has a few enhanced features and graphics. Mostly, the game is about getting the longest paper airplane ride out of a swipe across your iOS screen (which launches the plane). Stars earn you points, so you want to try to grab as many as possible en route. An occasional paper bird or similar power-up will zoom by for the grabbing.</p>
<p><img alt="" height="306" src="http://static.iphonelife.com/sites/iphonelife.com/files/resize/u97/Flight1-460x306.PNG" title="" width="460" /></p>
<p>You can also purchase upgrades via your bonus points from each round or through in app purchases. Power-ups allow you to steer your plane, make it lighter or give you an extra boost. You can upgrade to better paper models to enhance your flight times as well.</p>
<p>Don't wait to grab either Flight or Trigger Fist. Both games are a blast, and worked flawlessly on both my iPod touch and iPad. Grab them at the links above, and remember to check back regularly to iPhoneLife.com for the best in iOS news, reviews, tips, and more!</p>
AppsEditor's ChoiceFlightGamesTrigger FistGamesiPadiPhoneiPod touchReviews328979186531184261Sun, 12 Aug 2012 02:13:44 +0000Nate Adcock119491 at http://www.iphonelife.comTrigger Fist released - GET IT!!http://www.iphonelife.com/blog/97/trigger-fist-released
<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/SkhBcRHsAJk?feature=player_embedded" width="640"></iframe></p>
<p>This game in a word, ROCKS!! Just released today, <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/trigger-fist/id531184261">Trigger Fist</a>, an awesomely smooth shooter with lifelike combat sights and sounds, is available now on the Apple App Store for $4.99. Built with the Unity3D engine, TF is likely to become one of the hottest games you grab this year! The combat action is intense, if you survive long enough to appreciate it, that is. Review coming soon, but do yourself a favor, and grab this game NOW!&nbsp;</p>
AppsTrigger FistGamesiPadiPhoneiPod touch531184261Thu, 09 Aug 2012 01:08:54 +0000Nate Adcock123003 at http://www.iphonelife.com